ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – November 19, 2024
The Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC) has voiced strong dissatisfaction with Ethiopia’s ongoing National Consultation process, underscoring concerns about its structure, inclusivity, and timing. Declining to participate in the initiative, the OFC criticized the lack of meaningful opposition engagement and questioned the process’s legitimacy.
The OFC raised doubts about the impartiality of the National Consultation Commission, which has shifted between being under the Office of the Prime Minister and the House of People’s Representatives.
“At the beginning, the responsibility of the National Consultation Commission was said to be ‘the Office of the Prime Minister,’ then ‘the House of People’s Representatives.’ We did not see this as a meaningful change,” the party said in a statement to Ethio Eyewitness News.
The party further highlighted that the participation of opposition groups has been negligible, reducing the initiative’s credibility.
“The participation of others is either absent or very little. It means a level called insignificance,” the OFC added.
“War and Dialogue Don’t Mix”
One of the OFC’s primary criticisms centered on the ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia. The party questioned the logic of holding a national consultation while political and social instability persists.
“What is a national consultation while war is going on again? This is contradictory,” the statement read.
The OFC also pointed to practical obstacles, such as the closure of its offices and restrictions on its members, which hinder their ability to engage meaningfully in any consultation process.
“Our idea is that political discussions should be held between political forces. It should be inclusive of all forces… We asked that it would be good if the country is protected and the country is stabilized first.”
Hope for a More Inclusive Future
Despite its criticisms, the OFC expressed openness to participating in a reformed consultation process.
“If they come up with something better, we will applaud them. But for now, we are still not satisfied with the direction the national consultation is going,” the party stated.
The OFC’s concerns reflect broader sentiments across Ethiopia’s political landscape, as several opposition parties have abstained from the process for similar reasons.
Response from the National Consultation Commission
In response to the OFC’s remarks, Ethio Eyewitness News reached out to the Ethiopian National Consultation Commission. While the commission acknowledged the concerns, it noted that frequent internal meetings are being held to address the issues raised.
The commission emphasized its commitment to fostering a productive dialogue and pledged to create a platform for all voices to be heard.
A Crucial Test for Ethiopia’s Democratic Development
As Ethiopia grapples with political divisions and instability, the National Consultation process faces significant challenges. The absence of key political players like the OFC highlights the need for a more inclusive and transparent approach to ensure meaningful dialogue.
The success of the consultation will ultimately depend on the ability to bridge gaps between the government and opposition forces, creating a path toward unity and sustainable peace.
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